Overview
This instructional video explains how to properly adjust and safely use crutches, including walking, sitting, standing, and navigating stairs for individuals with injured legs.
Crutch Safety Tips
- Ensure crutches have padding at the top, handle, and bottom tip, all in good condition.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding weight allowed on the injured leg.
- Confirm all adjustment nuts are tight before use.
- Wear supportive shoes or remain barefoot; avoid slip-on footwear.
- Steer clear of wet surfaces and remove easily moved rugs to prevent slipping.
Adjusting Crutch Height
- Stand with the tip of the crutch 10 cm (6 in) from the side of your toes.
- Top of crutch should be 2–3 finger-widths below the armpit.
- Handle should align with the wrist when the arm hangs straight down.
- Elbow should be slightly bent when gripping the handle.
- Adjust crutch angle to allow hips to pass between them without touching.
- Do not lean on the crutch tops to avoid nerve pressure and numbness.
Walking with Crutches
- Doctor will specify allowed weight on the injured leg (none, partial, or full).
- For non-weight bearing: keep injured foot off the ground, move crutches forward, and hop forward on the good leg.
- Place weight through the hands, not through the armpits.
Sitting and Standing with Crutches
- To sit: stand with back of leg against chair, place crutches in one hand, reach for the chair with the other, and lower yourself.
- To stand: slide to the front of the seat, place crutches in one hand, push up with the other, then reposition crutches for walking.
Navigating Stairs with Crutches
- Use a railing when possible, with help standing on a lower step if available.
- Going upstairs (non-weight bearing, with railing): place both crutches in one hand, use the rail, hop up with the good leg first, then move crutch up.
- Going downstairs (with railing): place crutch on the step below, step down with good leg, always leading with the crutch.
- If no railing: keep crutches under both arms; always lead with the good leg going up and lead with the crutches going down.
Recommendations / Advice
- Always follow your doctor’s weight-bearing instructions.
- Do not lean on the top of crutches to prevent nerve damage.
- Remove home hazards and wear appropriate footwear to minimize fall risk.